How To Be An English Teacher Abroad

Why do you want to be an English teacher? For some it is the chance to experience new cultures and to travel to places they never dreamed of seeing. For others it’s an escape from the rat race, the opportunity to get away from the daily grind of the 9 to 5 office job. Whether you are looking to travel the world while paying off your student loan or are simply looking to change down a gear, there is a place in the world for you. In Thailand there are plenty of jobs available throughout the year up and down the country, and while Bangkok is a frenetic hub of energy the rest of the country is very laid back. With some of the best (and cheapest) food in the world as well as some magnificent beaches, Thailand is definitely the place for those that value an easy going lifestyle over the...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Destinations So you've finished your TEFL course and are trying to decide what to next. Do you want to chill out on a tropical beach sipping exotic cocktails as the sun lazily drops below the horizon after the week's teaching is done? Or are you looking to pay off the student loan while travelling the world and getting to know a whole new culture. Thailand Czech Republic Costa Rica South Korea Saudi Arabia Vietnam The United Arab Emirates Are you ready to start teaching English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This article looks at the differences between lifestyle and earning potential for popular TEFL destinations around the world. Tropical islands, beautiful beaches, jungle treks and delicious food; Thailand seems to have it all. You will find plenty of...  [Read more]

Whether you want to teach as a volunteer in the depths of the jungle on the Thai-Myanmar border or as a business English instructor to corporate high-flyers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, you will need at the least a recognised TEFL/TESOL certificate. Although it is still possible to find jobs where simply being a native speaker of English is enough to secure the position these opportunities are becoming few and far between and earning a 120-hour certificate with a reputable organisation should be your priority before starting out. A bachelor's degree is not a necessity for the majority of countries around the world and there are plenty of opportunities out there without such a qualification. Teaching experience is also not a necessity for the majority of teaching positions but the higher...  [Read more]

Absolutely! Many language schools worldwide are more interested in your teaching skills and passion than your specific educational background. While possessing a degree can offer additional opportunities, it is not a definitive barrier. Many individuals without degrees successfully pursue and thrive in English teaching roles abroad. Why is a degree required to do certain TEFL teaching jobs? How can I get a TEFL job if I don't have a degree? Where can I teach English if I don't have a degree? While there is no universal mandate stating TEFL teachers must have a bachelor's degree, several TEFL jobs do require one. The primary rationale behind this requirement is not necessarily pedagogical but administrative, mainly to fulfill visa regulations set by specific countries. Indeed, while...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas When I consider the most important aspect of the education system, the very first thing I think of is teachers. I would argue that teachers are the backbone of the education system. Anyone that attended school, regardless of country or region, was once educated by teachers. Even though all of us have that in common, it is impossible to think that everyone had the same experience regarding the teachers that influenced them. The obvious reason is that, just like every person is unique and different, all teachers are unique and distinct. It is sad to admit, but not every certified teacher is a good teacher. There are certain qualities that I believe are necessary to be a successful teacher. I will argue that patience, skill, and relatable personal...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Learning English is very difficult, there are many various grammatical and spelling differences between the English spoken throughout the world. Most notably is British and American English grammar. There are also differences in the pronunciation and meanings of many words. While you would think learning English would be a simple task, it is not, after all how different can English be from English? There are a few additional factors - Canadian, Australian, South African, Indian English, etc. have their own differences, these are differences that must be taken into consideration while you study the English Language. Why Learners Have to Know Variasions Differences in Spelling Differences in Pronunciation Differences in Vocabulary Differences in...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In the world, there are many different professions that people dream of. If you ask someone to name some of them, they probably would say something like a doctor, teacher, singer, and so on. When I was a child, my dad wanted me to become a teacher. He thought that becoming a teacher was a great job. Not just him, but many other people also thought so. It has always been like that. Back then, I was too young to understand the reason. But now that I have become a teacher, I am starting to realize why my dad and everyone else liked it. When Do You Become a Teacher? Many Responsibilities Are you ready to teach English abroad or online? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! ...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Motivation in the classroom is necessary, and very important when learning. As it is always important to be improving your methods and strategies, as a teacher to be able to make the class interesting and be optimistically as possible. Even though making learning fun, enjoyable, is important, it should not be mistaken as to what the end achievement and goal is to be. By making it fun, enjoyable, simply takes the tedious choir out of it, and to be more inspiring to achieve the end result. 1. Help 2. Reward 3. Refer to real-life situation 4. Make fun 5. Organize trips 6. Be caring Are you ready to teach ESL students abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Daniel B. As a teacher, it is...  [Read more]

Hadassah Roberts Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas One should know that a healthy classroom stems from a healthy teacher. When the teacher is healthy, then the whole class atmosphere will be much more alive. The students will see the healthiness of the teacher and will be inspired to protect and build their health. This, in turn, will cause increased happiness and progress in their studies. Simple Breakdown of Things to Do That Increase Health 1. Nutrition 2. Exercise 3. Water Getting enough Sunshine Temperance 6. Air Rest Trust Conclusion Over to you Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! Over the years in my teaching experiences, I have worked hard to increase my health for the benefit of not only myself but also for the benefit of my...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching English online has long become a worldwide trend, and that holds no surprise as it is easy, cheap, global, and requires no more than a computer and a stable internet connection. However, it also holds a lot of potential problems, such as adapting the learning materials for the online classroom or keeping students engaged and building rapport. In this essay, I am going to look at these problems in detail and suggest tools to solve them. Adapting materials and activities How to solve the problem? Challenging issues How to solve the problem? Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Alevtina B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Classroom management plays a vital role in developing an educational environment that further invites and encourages good behavior and learning. It is a skill that teachers must-have for not only organizing and managing the class but also to have a friendly, relaxed manner and the most important to maintain discipline. In my point of view, there are some key elements that teachers must consider to avoid disruptive behavior in the class and to engage students in meaningful learning. Lesson Preparation Body Language Grouping Classroom Setting Working With Challenging Behavior Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Jatinder K. Please note that this blog post might...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences A teacher, in general, has the direct opportunity to make a difference and to change the future. As a teacher, you will expect every one of your students to want to learn and more importantly to understand. You want your students to fight over the seats in the front row as if they were attending a concert, not elementary school. You want to make your students wonder, make them question, make them think critically, make them write and of course to make them read. Reason 1: You'll see amazing new things! Reason 2: You'll increase your adaptability! Reason 3: You'll broaden your personal horizons! Are you ready to take your TEFL course? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Tebogo Z. Being a...  [Read more]

To teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad, being a native English speaker is not always a strict requirement. While some countries and institutions may prefer native speakers, many language schools and programs are open to hiring non-native English speakers who are proficient in the language. The key qualification for teaching English abroad is usually holding a TEFL certification, which demonstrates your ability to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. Additionally, having a bachelor's degree in any field is often required, along with a good command of the English language. Non-native English speakers may encounter certain challenges when teaching English abroad. One common challenge is overcoming stereotypes or biases that some students or employers may have about...  [Read more]

To teach English abroad, being a native English speaker is not always a strict requirement. Many countries and language schools are open to hiring non-native English speakers as long as they meet certain qualifications. These qualifications typically include having a proficient level of English, holding a recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, and having a bachelor's degree in any field. Some countries may also require non-native English teachers to have a neutral accent and relevant teaching experience. Non-native English teachers bring a unique perspective to the classroom that can be highly beneficial for language learners. They have a deep understanding of the challenges that students face when learning English as a second language, as they have gone...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences The following blog post is about an ITTT graduate who shares his story on how he found a passion for teaching English abroad after studying abroad in Taiwan. "What did I have to lose?" "What do these developments have to do with my decision to pursue certification to teach English?" "Teaching English in China seemed like a very risky move." "I believe I will find no other career as fulfilling as teaching English." Listen to this blog post Now it's your turn to get TEFL certified! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph S. When I began my undergraduate education, I intended to pursue a Master's degree, likely in Industrial Psychology, and then a career in that field; most likely consulting. However, as a...  [Read more]

An online TEFL course should typically be around 120-150 hours in duration to provide a comprehensive training experience for aspiring English language teachers. Here are some key points to consider regarding the length of an online TEFL course: Online TEFL courses typically range in duration from 40 hours to 250 hours, with the most common options being 120 hours and 160 hours. Here is a breakdown of the typical durations of online TEFL courses: Yes, there are recommended durations for online TEFL courses, although they can vary depending on the course provider and the level of certification being sought. Generally, online TEFL courses can range from 40 hours to 250 hours or more. Here are some guidelines to consider for online TEFL course durations:  [Read more]

As a TEFL teacher, having strong language skills is crucial for effectively communicating with students, explaining concepts clearly, and providing feedback. Your language proficiency sets the foundation for successful language teaching, as it serves as a model for students to emulate. Additionally, being proficient in the language you are teaching helps you understand the challenges students may face and enables you to tailor your teaching methods to address these issues effectively. To enhance your language skills, consider immersing yourself in the language as much as possible. This can involve activities such as reading books, watching movies or TV shows, listening to podcasts, and engaging in conversations with native speakers. Language exchange programs are also beneficial, as they...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Games are a useful tool for teachers of EFL students because they help with motivation, engagement, and graceful failure (Plass 260-261). I will present a successful example of a teacher using games in an adult grammar class from Indonesia. Second, since I plan to teach online EFL students, I will present free digital games online teachers can use in their virtual classrooms. Advantages of the Theory The First Research Popular Games Access to Materials My Choice Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Christopher C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Many professional articles have been written showing...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences As a native English speaker, my first major foreign language experience began in 8th grade, where I had the option of studying either Spanish or French. I chose Spanish, as I'd always been drawn to the language and Latin American culture, and hoped to one day live in a Spanish speaking country. I studied the language throughout high school, but in the years afterward, it wasn't much of a priority and wasn't something I used on a regular basis. Our language classes were mainly structured around learning grammar and following the textbook. I recognized a lot of the same lack of interest in learning as I saw during my own high school language class days. I was afraid of making mistakes. I learned from my mistakes the first time around. Are you ready to...  [Read more]

Rhea Latchu Alumni Experiences What if I told you it is totally possible to combine your passion with your dream? Teaching English, the Ticket to Being an Expat Not the Typical Tourist The Teaching Aspect The Balancing Act So Are You Ready for Your Journey? Related Articles: Well, it is. You see, for as long as I can remember, I have always had the dream to travel and wander around this globe. Then approximately four years ago, I discovered a passion within me that I didn't even know existed: teaching! And that is how my journey working as an EFL Teacher began! Teaching English for many presents the opportunity needed to become an expat. To live the expat life. This was certainly the case for me. When I accepted a volunteer position as an English Teacher in Chile four years ago, it...  [Read more]

Federico Riva Alumni Experiences Teaching is an essential part of education. Its special function is to impart knowledge, develop understanding and skills. The teacher plays a vital role in imparting knowledge to the learners What is Teaching Skill? Teaching Skills all Educators Should Foster Patience Creativity Communication and Collaboration Likable Personality Self-Discipline Possessing these skills is important because: Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Kimbu H. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Teaching skills are defined as a group of teaching acts or behaviors intended to facilitate students learning directly or...  [Read more]

When considering teaching English abroad, it's essential to research and understand the cost of living in the specific country or region you are interested in. Factors such as housing, transportation, food, and leisure activities can vary significantly from one place to another. Some countries may offer a lower cost of living, making it easier to save money, while others may require a more budget-conscious approach. It's crucial to create a realistic budget based on your expected income and expenses to determine how much you can save while teaching abroad. There are several strategies you can implement to save money while teaching English abroad. One common approach is to look for teaching positions that offer benefits such as accommodation, transportation, or health insurance. By taking...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas As an EFL teacher, one is expected to create a proper and culturally sensitive atmosphere in the classroom at all times. Unfortunately, this does not happen in every instance because many different errors can occur. To prevent possibly contract terminable offenses, a special mindset and system of preparation must be instituted. When approached correctly, discussing difficult or even controversial ideas in a foreign country can be both culturally sensitive while also not needing excessive censorship. History Awareness The Notion of "Colony" Enforcement Cultural Peculiarities Controversial Topics Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate James S. Please note that...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences What is volunteer teaching? In my opinion, it is bringing justice to our life. The modern world is made up of contrasts, though it is difficult to realize when living in civilization. But despite the fact that many countries are developing very quickly, there are still many places in the world where people live in much less favorable conditions. Volunteer teachers can teach any subject Volunteer teaching as a solution Gaining work experience through volunteer teaching Living among locals Volunteer teaching as a creative balance Are you ready to teach English Abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This, of course, relates to many areas of life: ecology, medicine, the opportunity to get a job, working conditions and wages. At the heart of...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences I would like to divide groups of learners into 4 categories: children (from 5 to 12 years old), teenagers (from 12 to 18 years old), adults (from 18 to 60 years old) and seniors (from 60+). I had the chance to teach all of those groups in some points of my life. The conclusion of this experience made me see the major difference in the abilities and motivation among those 4 different groups. Teaching children Teaching teenagers Teaching adults Teaching seniors Are you ready to teach ESL students? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Lara M. Children are a very nice audience when it comes to preparing fun exercises. They also don't require detailed knowledge, because they are just at the...  [Read more]

Typically, TEFL teachers should possess an accredited TEFL certificate with at least 120 hours of training. Proficiency in English, either as a native or fluent speaker, is also vital. While a bachelor's degree can enhance job prospects, many institutions prioritize the TEFL certification. Above all, a zest for adventure and a passion for teaching are invaluable assets in this field. Do I need to be fluent in English to get a job in TEFL? Do I need to be a native English speaker to get a job in TEFL? Do I need a TEFL qualification to teach English? Can I get a TEFL job if I have completed a TEFL taster course? What is a 120-hour TEFL certificate course? Should I take additional TEFL courses to enhance my job opportunities? Fluency in English is fundamental for those aspiring to become...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore TEFL Information In our modern age where working online has become a common way to make a steady living, the opportunities for qualified English teachers have further branched out into what we call the "virtual classroom". How to get started teaching English online The best employment options for teaching English online How much can you earn teaching English online? Some popular teaching platforms for teaching English online include: Useful Facebook Groups Are you ready to teach English online? More about Teaching English online in this video: There are countless online platforms and providers that offer English lessons online with native speakers allowing students from all over the world to learn how to speak English from the comfort of their home. Here is our...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The TESOL/TEFL course from ITTT has taught me many things that will elevate my teaching. The best things that I learned from this course can be summarized in three statements. First, it is very important to be flexible in all aspects of your teaching. Second, it is crucial to be confident and adapt your teaching as each class progresses. Third, it is vital to develop a rapport and relationship with your students. While there are many different areas of my teaching that were improved by this course, I believe that these three things are the best and most important. Flexibility Confidence Rapport Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Stephanie B. Please note...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences Nowadays English has become a common language that helps to facilitate the communication between people from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. English may not be the most widely used language in the world, but it is the official language of 53 countries and it is used by around 400 million people worldwide. As a result, being able to speak English does not only mean communicating with native English speakers, but it also means opening the door to new international chances and opportunities. 3 Key Strengths of Non-Native ESL Teachers: 1. They have a better understanding of the difficulties and challenges faced by their students. 2. They are more precise when it comes to pronunciation and spelling. 3. They are bilingual. 3 Most Common Weaknesses of...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore TEFL Information We admire them and now we want to be them but what are those fundamental qualities that make teachers so great? Drawing on decades of experience of working with TEFL teachers across the globe, we have listed the top 10 qualities every great teacher should have below. 1. They're glowing and inspiring. 2. They plan it all out. 3. They are patient. 4. They are challengers. 5. They are creative. 6. They are great talkers. 7. They know their stuff. 8. They are flexible and adaptable. 9. They show and receive respect. 10. They are professional. Listen to this blog post Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Great teachers love what they're doing. They are passionate about their subject and do their best to bring it through to the students....  [Read more]